Edinburgh & Speyside Whisky Trail
Tour Scotland's Most Famous Whisky District
Scotch in Scotland, what could be better?! Explore the hilly capital city of Edinburgh as well as Speyside, Scotland's most prominent whisky-distilling region in this 5-night vacation package.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Edinburgh (EDI)
- Private round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at the Mercure Princes Street or similar
- Edinburgh City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Pass (24-hours)
- Lunch with Whisky Pairing at Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar
- Speyside Whisky Trail 2-night Small-Group Guided Tour, including:*
- 2 nights in Grantown-on-Spey at the Craiglynne Hotel, or similar
- Four whisky distillery visits
- Transportation by luxury private 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
- Services of a professional driver/guide
- Service charges & VAT tax
- 1 night in Edinburgh at the Mercure Princes Street or similar
- Breakfast Daily
- Entry and tasting fees at the distilleries are not included in the price, to give you more choices and options of extra tastings, on the spot. Please allow approximately an extra 25-30 GBP for the tours and tastings.
- The itinerary and distillery visits are subject to variation throughout the season, and may be different than those described in the itinerary. However, there will always be a minimum of four distillery visits during the tour.
- On Friday departures, days 1 and 3 will be done in reverse, and the tour will not visit the Speyside Cooperage (another site will be substituted).
- Lunches are not included. However the tour will either stop in small villages with a choice of lunch options, or at a local family establishment where there is a choice to suit all budgets. These places are always chosen for their charm and character - to give you the taste of local hospitality.
Great Ways to Explore
-
In Edinburgh, take a selfie in front of the famous Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop an ancient volcano.
- Enjoy a personalized tour of a family-owned distillery!
-
Have the opportunity to sample whiskies and taste the regional differences.
-
On your guided journey, make a stop at a village based in the middle of a national park!
-
Treat yourself to a pint at Scotland's oldest licensed pub, the Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh!
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.Â
No visit to Scotland is complete without a little Scotch to warm your insides! You'll start and end your adventure in Edinburgh, Scotland's hilly capital.
In between your time exploring the city, you'll enjoy a 3-day guided tour of Speyside's Whisky Trail, home to more than half of Scotland's malt whisky distilleries. Your 3-day adventure allows you to sit back and let someone else do the driving while you visit some of the finest whisky distilleries in Scotland, and enjoy the magnificent scenery of Cairngorm National Park, Speyside and Royal Deeside.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Edinburgh (EDI)
- Private round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at the Mercure Princes Street or similar
- Edinburgh City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Pass (24-hours)
- Lunch with Whisky Pairing at Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar
- Speyside Whisky Trail 2-night Small-Group Guided Tour, including:*
- 2 nights in Grantown-on-Spey at the Craiglynne Hotel, or similar
- Four whisky distillery visits
- Transportation by luxury private 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
- Services of a professional driver/guide
- Service charges & VAT tax
- 1 night in Edinburgh at the Mercure Princes Street or similar
- Breakfast Daily
- Entry and tasting fees at the distilleries are not included in the price, to give you more choices and options of extra tastings, on the spot. Please allow approximately an extra 25-30 GBP for the tours and tastings.
- The itinerary and distillery visits are subject to variation throughout the season, and may be different than those described in the itinerary. However, there will always be a minimum of four distillery visits during the tour.
- On Friday departures, days 1 and 3 will be done in reverse, and the tour will not visit the Speyside Cooperage (another site will be substituted).
- Lunches are not included. However the tour will either stop in small villages with a choice of lunch options, or at a local family establishment where there is a choice to suit all budgets. These places are always chosen for their charm and character - to give you the taste of local hospitality.
-
In Edinburgh, take a selfie in front of the famous Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop an ancient volcano.
- Enjoy a personalized tour of a family-owned distillery!
-
Have the opportunity to sample whiskies and taste the regional differences.
-
On your guided journey, make a stop at a village based in the middle of a national park!
-
Treat yourself to a pint at Scotland's oldest licensed pub, the Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh!
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.Â
No visit to Scotland is complete without a little Scotch to warm your insides! You'll start and end your adventure in Edinburgh, Scotland's hilly capital.
In between your time exploring the city, you'll enjoy a 3-day guided tour of Speyside's Whisky Trail, home to more than half of Scotland's malt whisky distilleries. Your 3-day adventure allows you to sit back and let someone else do the driving while you visit some of the finest whisky distilleries in Scotland, and enjoy the magnificent scenery of Cairngorm National Park, Speyside and Royal Deeside.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Edinburgh!
Arrive at Edinburgh Airport and enjoy a private transfer to your first accommodation. After getting settled in, start taking advantage of your included Hop-On/Hop-Off bus pass.
In the evening, consider heading over to Scotland's oldest pub, the Sheep Heid Inn, to celebrate your first night in Scotland!
Transfer to Edinburgh hotel
Stay in a fine 3-star Edinburgh hotel, ideally located in the city center’s popular Princes Street. Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street Hotel has great views of Edinburgh Castle. Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi is available in the 169 stylish guest rooms and throughout the hotel. Scott's on Princes Street is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; as well as for light snacks and drinks. Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Edinburgh castle from the hotel. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus and only 7 minutes walking distance from Waverley train station.
The Edinburgh Princes Street hotel is above the Princes Street shops near Edinburgh Waverley Station, with direct rail services to UK cities. Edinburgh bus station is 500 meters away, and the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus stops 150 meters from the hotel. From Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus-stop follow Waverley Bridge, walk up towards the Scott Monument on your left. Continue over the crossing towards the monument. The hotel is opposite you, between Jenner’s department store and Marks & Spencer.Experience the true history, beauty, and culture of Edinburgh at the centrally positioned Jurys Inn. Located just off the famous Royal Mile, you'll be right in the center of Edinburgh's Old Town. In just steps, find yourself at Holyrood Park, Princes Street Gardens, or the Edinburgh Castle! Head back to the hotel and recharge at the all-day Costa Coffee Bar, perfect for curling up and relaxing with a good book.
Unwind with a drink at the hotel's stylish on-site bar, then head to the contemporary restaurant and indulge in a mouthwatering meal. After an exciting day, close the door to your room and escape to a state of peace and tranquility. You'll completely forget that a bustling city exists right outside. Relax in your large soft bed, catch up on your favorite TV shows, and use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure. If you happen to crave a midnight snack, don't worry - room service will be at your door in just minutes.Â
Relax in your large, comfortable bed at the charming Murrayfield Hotel. This stylish, quaint hotel will serve as a perfect home base, as it is located right on the border of the Edinburgh City Centre. Start your day with a walk to the national Murrayfield Stadium, stroll around Roseburn Park, or uncover your wild side at the Edinburgh Zoo. For more fun, hop on a local train or hail a cab and explore the historic Edinburgh City Centre. In just minutes, you'll be right in the middle of the breathtaking architecture of Edinburgh's New Town and Old Town.
Yes, Edinburgh is filled with amazing restaurants, but make sure to have at least one meal at The Bothy, Murrayfield's on-site restaurant and drinkery! Whether its a pleasant breakfast, weekend brunch, or a romantic candlelit dinner, this stylish yet traditional Scottish restaurant will serve you up an experience that will leave you wanting more. Indulge in homemade Scottish favorites, bistro bites, and craft cocktails while you relax in a comfortable, homey, yet trendy atmosphere. Look out for events like quiz night, flight night, and whiskey tasting night that are hosted at The Bothy.Â
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's Old Town at the eclectic Stay Central Hotel. Located right on bustling Cowgate, you'll be just steps away from many sights and attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this hotel's funky yet stylish decor - be on the lookout for tons of interesting artwork, unique furniture, and fun board games.
When your legs are tired from exploring, head up to your spacious, comfortable room and take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities. Use complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your trip, catch up on your favorite show on a flat screen TV, and relax in the rainfall-style shower.Â
Located in the historical heart of the city near Haymarket station, Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is the perfect place from which to explore Scotland's enchanting capital city. Each of the 282 comfortable and modern rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, bottled water and double-glazed windows for a peaceful sleep. Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast and cap off a day of adventure with a meal at the on-site restaurant. Conveniently located to the major sites of Edinburgh, the hotel is located close to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
Please note this hotel was formerly known as the Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh.Edinburgh City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Tour (24 hours)
Discover the best of Scotland’s Capital with City Sightseeing Edinburgh, 24-hour tour. Take in the city’s major sites including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Grassmarket, Scottish Parliament and the Scottish National Gallery.
Visit the city’s Old Town and Georgian New Town - both of which enjoy UNESCO World Heritage status. The full loop takes approximately 60 minutes - however, you can hop on and off wherever and whenever you'd like, along the way.
Day 2. Edinburgh
Today, enjoy an unforgettable lunch and whisky pairing at Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar!
Lunch with Whisky Pairing at Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar
Enjoy lunch at the iconic Amber Restaurant located at the Scotch Whisky Experience. Since its inception, the goal of the restaurant was to feature locally sourced food paired with the high quality Scotch Whisky. Your 3-course lunch includes tea/coffee and 2 whisky pairings (soft drinks for 17 and under).
Day 3. Edinburgh - Grantown-on-Spey
Please arrive by 8:30am for a 9:00am departure, from the Rabbie's Café, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh EH1 3EG.
Departing from Edinburgh, your three-day Scotch Whisky adventure starts with the journey north into the Highlands. The first stop will be the historic village of Dunkeld for a short walk through the Hermitage forest to some stunning waterfalls.
After lunch in Pitlochry you will make your first distillery visit at Dalwhinnie – the highest distillery in the country and the closest to the source of the River Spey. From here you follow the river north through the Cairngorm National Park to the small town of Grantown-on-Spey – your base for the next two nights.
Check-in - The Craiglynne Hotel
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Highlands in Grantown-on-Spey at this beautiful hotel that marries traditional Scottish charm with modern luxury and amenities. Catch yourself admiring the beauty and architecture of this grand Victorian hotel, which boasts Highland granite, stone towers, and bay windows overlooking lush gardens. After you settle into your spacious, comfortable room, take a short walk to the center of town and explore!
After an adventurous day, relax with a drink and cozy up around the roaring log fireplace in the lounge. When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious classic Scottish cuisine at the hotel's award-winning Speyside Restaurant. Head up to your room, climb into your large comfortable bed, and enjoy the hotel's hand-picked amenities that will make you feel right at home.Â
Day 4. Grantown-on-Spey
Spend a whole day exploring Scotland’s most famous whisky region. After a scenic drive toward the coast, your first stop of the day will be at the family-owned Benromach Distillery, for a personalized tour.
From here it is a short distance to Elgin - home to Gordon and Macphail - one of the world’s leading specialist whisky bottlers and suppliers. From here you will travel back up the Spey to Craigellachie for a visit to the Speyside Cooperage where you will see another aspect of the whisky making process (Wednesday departures only).
After lunch here or in nearby Aberlour you will visit Cardhu Distillery. Cardhu is the most important whisky in Johnnie Walker Black Label. From here you'll return back to Grantown-on-Spey.
Day 5. Grantown-on-Spey - Edinburgh
Today you’ll travel through the beautiful Cairngorm Mountains en route back to Edinburgh. In the morning you’ll explore Glenlivet - not just a distillery but also a beautiful glen with great walks and wonderful wildlife.
You will then enjoy the majesty of Royal Deeside, passing by Balmoral Castle, making a stop in the village of Braemar, in the heart of the National Park. From here the route south passes over Scotland’s highest mountain pass through Perthshire, before arriving back in Edinburgh at approximately 6:30pm.
Balmoral Castle
Stay in a fine 3-star Edinburgh hotel, ideally located in the city center’s popular Princes Street. Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street Hotel has great views of Edinburgh Castle. Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi is available in the 169 stylish guest rooms and throughout the hotel. Scott's on Princes Street is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; as well as for light snacks and drinks. Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Edinburgh castle from the hotel. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus and only 7 minutes walking distance from Waverley train station.
The Edinburgh Princes Street hotel is above the Princes Street shops near Edinburgh Waverley Station, with direct rail services to UK cities. Edinburgh bus station is 500 meters away, and the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus stops 150 meters from the hotel. From Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus-stop follow Waverley Bridge, walk up towards the Scott Monument on your left. Continue over the crossing towards the monument. The hotel is opposite you, between Jenner’s department store and Marks & Spencer.Experience the true history, beauty, and culture of Edinburgh at the centrally positioned Jurys Inn. Located just off the famous Royal Mile, you'll be right in the center of Edinburgh's Old Town. In just steps, find yourself at Holyrood Park, Princes Street Gardens, or the Edinburgh Castle! Head back to the hotel and recharge at the all-day Costa Coffee Bar, perfect for curling up and relaxing with a good book.
Unwind with a drink at the hotel's stylish on-site bar, then head to the contemporary restaurant and indulge in a mouthwatering meal. After an exciting day, close the door to your room and escape to a state of peace and tranquility. You'll completely forget that a bustling city exists right outside. Relax in your large soft bed, catch up on your favorite TV shows, and use the hotel's free WiFi to plan your next day of adventure. If you happen to crave a midnight snack, don't worry - room service will be at your door in just minutes.Â
Relax in your large, comfortable bed at the charming Murrayfield Hotel. This stylish, quaint hotel will serve as a perfect home base, as it is located right on the border of the Edinburgh City Centre. Start your day with a walk to the national Murrayfield Stadium, stroll around Roseburn Park, or uncover your wild side at the Edinburgh Zoo. For more fun, hop on a local train or hail a cab and explore the historic Edinburgh City Centre. In just minutes, you'll be right in the middle of the breathtaking architecture of Edinburgh's New Town and Old Town.
Yes, Edinburgh is filled with amazing restaurants, but make sure to have at least one meal at The Bothy, Murrayfield's on-site restaurant and drinkery! Whether its a pleasant breakfast, weekend brunch, or a romantic candlelit dinner, this stylish yet traditional Scottish restaurant will serve you up an experience that will leave you wanting more. Indulge in homemade Scottish favorites, bistro bites, and craft cocktails while you relax in a comfortable, homey, yet trendy atmosphere. Look out for events like quiz night, flight night, and whiskey tasting night that are hosted at The Bothy.Â
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's Old Town at the eclectic Stay Central Hotel. Located right on bustling Cowgate, you'll be just steps away from many sights and attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this hotel's funky yet stylish decor - be on the lookout for tons of interesting artwork, unique furniture, and fun board games.
When your legs are tired from exploring, head up to your spacious, comfortable room and take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities. Use complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your trip, catch up on your favorite show on a flat screen TV, and relax in the rainfall-style shower.Â
Located in the historical heart of the city near Haymarket station, Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is the perfect place from which to explore Scotland's enchanting capital city. Each of the 282 comfortable and modern rooms offer complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, bottled water and double-glazed windows for a peaceful sleep. Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast and cap off a day of adventure with a meal at the on-site restaurant. Conveniently located to the major sites of Edinburgh, the hotel is located close to the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
Please note this hotel was formerly known as the Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh.Day 6. Depart Scotland
In accordance with your departure flight, enjoy one final private transfer to Edinburgh Airport.Â
Transfer to Edinburgh airport (EDI)
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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